37
It was none of your impudent off-hand nods,
But as humble as could be;
For it clearly knew
The deference due
To a man of pedigree!
And it's oh, I vow,
This deathly bow
Was a touching sight to see;
Though trunkless, yet
It couldn't forget,
The deference due to me!
Chorus.
This haughty youth,
He speaks the truth
Whenever he finds it pays!
And in this case
It all took place
[Exeunt Chorus.
Mik. All this is very interesting, and I should like to have seen it. But we came about a totally different matter. A year ago my son, the heir to the throne of Japan, bolted from our Imperial Court.
Ko. Indeed! Had he any reason to be dissatisfied with his position?
Kat. None whatever. On the contrary, I was going to marry him— yet he fled!
Pooh. I am surprised that he should have fled from one so lovely!
Kat. That's not true.
Pooh. No!
Kat. You hold that I am not beautiful because my face is plain. But you know nothing; you are still unenlightened. Learn, then, that it is not in the face alone that beauty is to be sought. My face is unattractive!
Pooh. It is.
Kat. But I have a left shoulder-blade that is a miracle of loveliness. People come miles to see it. My right elbow has a fascination that few can resist.
Pooh. Allow me!
Kat. It is on view Tuesdays and Fridays, on presentation of visiting card. As for my circulation, it is the largest in the world.
Ko. And yet he fled.
Mik. And is now masquerading in this town, disguised as a Second Trombone.
